Discuss the difference between the logical and evidential problems of evil.

1. Introduction

The problem of evil is a longstanding philosophical and theological challenge that seeks to reconcile the existence of evil and suffering with the existence of a benevolent, omnipotent, and omniscient deity. Within the problem of evil, scholars distinguish between the logical problem of evil and the evidential problem of evil, each presenting distinct challenges to theistic beliefs.

2. The Logical Problem of Evil

2.1. Definition and Nature

The logical problem of evil questions the coherence of believing in an all-powerful, all-knowing, and wholly good deity in the face of the existence of evil and suffering in the world. It argues that the presence of evil is logically incompatible with the existence of such a deity, leading to the conclusion that one or more attributes of God must be revised or rejected to maintain logical consistency.

2.2. Inconsistency of God's Attributes

Proponents of the logical problem of evil highlight the apparent contradiction between the traditional attributes of God and the existence of evil. They argue that if God is omnipotent, he should be able to prevent evil; if he is omniscient, he should know about evil; and if he is wholly good, he should desire to eliminate evil. The existence of evil seemingly undermines at least one of these attributes, leading to logical inconsistency.

2.3. Classical Formulation and Responses

Philosopher J.L. Mackie famously articulated the logical problem of evil in his essay "Evil and Omnipotence." He posited that the existence of evil is logically incompatible with the existence of an all-powerful and perfectly good God. Theologians and philosophers have responded to the logical problem of evil by proposing various theodicies and defenses, such as free will, soul-making, and skeptical theism, aimed at reconciling God's attributes with the presence of evil.

3. The Evidential Problem of Evil

3.1. Definition and Nature

Unlike the logical problem of evil, the evidential problem of evil does not seek to demonstrate logical inconsistency but rather questions the likelihood or probability of the existence of God given the prevalence and intensity of evil and suffering in the world. It argues that while the existence of evil may not logically disprove the existence of God, it provides strong evidence against the existence of a benevolent and omnipotent deity.

3.2. Scale and Severity of Evil

Proponents of the evidential problem of evil point to the sheer scale and severity of evil and suffering in the world, including natural disasters, diseases, human atrocities, and personal tragedies, as evidence against the existence of a loving and powerful God. They argue that the amount and intensity of suffering seem disproportionate to what one would expect from a benevolent and omnipotent deity.

3.3. Empirical Observations and Inference

The evidential problem of evil relies on empirical observations of the world and human experience to infer the likelihood or probability of God's existence. It suggests that the overwhelming presence of evil and suffering in the world makes it improbable that such a deity exists, given the traditional understanding of God's attributes.

4. Relationship Between the Two Problems

While the logical and evidential problems of evil present distinct challenges to theistic beliefs, they are not mutually exclusive. The logical problem of evil raises questions about the internal consistency of theism, while the evidential problem of evil focuses on the external evidence against the existence of God. Both problems contribute to the broader discussion about the compatibility of theism with the existence of evil and suffering.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, the logical problem of evil questions the coherence of believing in an all-powerful, all-knowing, and wholly good deity in light of the existence of evil, while the evidential problem of evil challenges the likelihood or probability of God's existence given the prevalence and intensity of evil and suffering. While these problems present distinct challenges to theistic beliefs, they contribute to ongoing philosophical and theological inquiries into the nature of God and the problem of evil.